These BBQ Pork and Pineapple Kebabs are the ultimate summer grilling recipe, combining the juicy sweetness of pineapple with the savory richness of tender pork. The smoky BBQ flavor complements the caramelized edges of the grilled fruit, making every bite irresistible.
Perfect for a family barbecue or a casual weeknight dinner, these kebabs are not only tasty but also easy to prepare. The balance of flavors between the pork, pineapple, and bell peppers makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. You can also customize the vegetables based on your preference, adding zucchini, onions, or even mushrooms for extra variety.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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500g pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
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1 pineapple, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
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1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
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1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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3 tablespoons BBQ sauce
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 tablespoon honey
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
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Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
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In a small bowl, combine BBQ sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Thread the pork, pineapple, and bell peppers onto skewers, alternating between pork and fruit.
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Brush the skewers with the BBQ sauce mixture.
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Grill the kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pork is cooked through and the pineapple is caramelized.
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Serve the skewers hot, drizzled with any remaining BBQ sauce.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why These Kebabs Work So Well Together
The contrast of sweet and savory in BBQ Pork and Pineapple Kebabs is what makes them such a standout dish. The pork, marinated in BBQ sauce, soy sauce, and garlic, absorbs all the rich, smoky flavors, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture when grilled. Meanwhile, the pineapple adds a touch of natural sweetness and juiciness, creating a lovely balance with the savory pork. Red onion and capsicum (bell pepper) further enhance the flavor profile by adding slight sweetness and a bit of crunch.
The charred bits of pineapple and the caramelized pork on the skewers are a visual treat, making these kebabs not only delicious but also perfect for summer gatherings. The pineapple pieces on the skewers tend to caramelize beautifully when cooked, adding an extra layer of flavor to each bite.
Marinating for Flavor Depth
The key to these BBQ pork and pineapple kebabs lies in the marinade. The combination of BBQ sauce, soy sauce, and garlic infuses the pork with an intense umami flavor while also tenderizing the meat. Allowing the pork to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) helps ensure that every bite is packed with flavor. The longer the pork marinates, the deeper the flavor, so don’t rush this part of the process. It’s the marination that gives the kebabs their irresistible taste and makes the grilling process even more rewarding.
If you’re looking to experiment with the marinade, you can add other ingredients like honey for additional sweetness, or spicy chili flakes if you prefer some heat. The versatility of the marinade allows you to adjust the flavors according to your preferences, making this recipe adaptable to a wide variety of taste profiles.
The Perfect Vegetables to Pair with Pork and Pineapple
While the BBQ Pork and Pineapple Kebabs are already packed with flavors, adding vegetables to the mix elevates the dish even further. The recipe calls for red onion and capsicum (yellow bell pepper), which both complement the pork and pineapple beautifully. The bell peppers add a mild sweetness and a crisp texture, while the red onion adds a savory, slightly sharp contrast to the sweet pineapple.
However, feel free to experiment with other vegetables. Zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant are great alternatives that will soak up the marinade and add different textures to the dish. If you’re looking to add extra color and vibrancy, you can also use a variety of bell peppers or add tomatoes to the skewers.
Grilling Tips for Perfect Kebabs
Grilling is a crucial part of making these kebabs, and there are a few key tips to ensure your BBQ Pork and Pineapple Kebabs turn out perfectly every time. First, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will help you achieve those beautiful grill marks and the perfect amount of char on your ingredients.
If you’re using wooden skewers, it’s a good idea to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the ingredients. This helps prevent them from burning on the grill. Additionally, be sure to turn the kebabs regularly to ensure even cooking and caramelization on all sides. Grilling for 10-15 minutes should be sufficient to cook the pork through while giving the pineapple and vegetables that perfect caramelized char.
Serving Suggestions
BBQ Pork and Pineapple Kebabs are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with sides such as freshly steamed rice, a crisp green salad, or some sautéed vegetables. For an extra touch of flavor, drizzle the remaining BBQ sauce over the kebabs after grilling or serve with a side of dipping sauce. This makes for a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing, especially on a warm summer day.
You can also serve the kebabs as part of a BBQ platter, along with other grilled meats and salads, or even create a build-your-own-kebab bar where guests can customize their skewers with their favorite vegetables and proteins. This flexibility makes BBQ Pork and Pineapple Kebabs a great dish for both casual meals and more elaborate gatherings.
Customization Options
One of the best things about BBQ Pork and Pineapple Kebabs is their versatility. While the recipe uses pork fillet steaks, you can easily swap the meat for other options such as chicken, beef, or lamb. The marinade works well with most proteins, making it a go-to recipe for grilling season. If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with tofu or even just load up the skewers with more vegetables and pineapple.
For those with dietary restrictions, this dish can be made gluten-free by ensuring that you use gluten-free soy sauce and BBQ sauce. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so making this dish suitable for various dietary needs is simple.
Meal Prep and Storage
If you’re planning ahead for a BBQ or dinner party, BBQ Pork and Pineapple Kebabs are an excellent dish to prepare in advance. You can marinate the pork the night before, allowing the flavors to develop even further. Then, simply thread the pork, pineapple, and vegetables onto skewers when you’re ready to cook.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The kebabs can be enjoyed hot or cold, making them a great option for meal prep or packed lunches. If you prefer to eat them hot, you can reheat them on the grill for a few minutes to get them back to that perfect grilled texture.
Conclusion
BBQ Pork and Pineapple Kebabs are a fantastic dish that combines the best of sweet and savory flavors. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or enjoying a casual weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit. The marinated pork, caramelized pineapple, and vibrant vegetables create a balanced and flavorful meal that’s both satisfying and fun to make. With a few grilling tips and customization options, you can easily adapt this dish to your taste, making it a go-to recipe for grilling season.
Enjoy these kebabs with some freshly steamed rice, a crisp salad, or your favorite vegetables, and you have a meal that will impress every time.